Microbial eco-evolutionary dynamics in the plant rhizosphere

Abstract

Microbial communities are vital for plant health and productivity. While most studies have underlined the ecology of plant-microbe interactions, accumulating evidence suggests rapid microbial evolution is also important, often occurring at ecological timescales within and between plant generations. We review current evidence and mechanisms of rapid microbial evolution in the rhizosphere, focusing on examples along the mutualism-parasitism continuum. We consider how evolution can change the ecology and plant-microbe ecosystem functioning via eco-evolutionary dynamics and highlight the importance of intraspecies diversity as the product and raw material for natural selection. We conclude that acknowledging rapid evolution is not only crucial for understanding the complex plant-microbiota interplay but also an important prerequisite for harnessing the benefits of soil microbes for sustainable agriculture.